Tadej Pogacar has to cope with the next serious setback in the fight to successfully defend his title at the Tour de France.
The Pole Rafal Majka, the Slovenian’s most important helper in the mountains, did not compete on Wednesday for the 17th stage to Peyragudes. The day before, the 32-year-old had partially torn his thigh muscle when his chain broke on the last climb. This was announced by his team.
This means that Pogacar only has one helper in the mountains in the American Brandon McNulty. In total, the UAE squad is down to four riders after sick Spaniard Marc Soler fell out of the time limit on Tuesday. The Swiss Marc Hirschi and the Dane Mikkel Bjerg are more specialists for flat and hilly stages.
Corona at Wellens
Meanwhile, Belgian Tim Wellens tested positive and has to leave the race. He had mild symptoms, said his Lotto Soudal racing team before the 17th stage. Wellens was far behind in 121st place overall.